It’s been nearly two years since Nike introduced the original Fuelband. This week, Nike released the Fuelband SE (Second Edition), which supports Bluetooth 4.0, has an improved accelerometer, can “tag” activities, and vibrates to remind you to get out of your chair and move.
Also new to the Fuelband are colour choices. The Fuelband SE comes in four different colours including Volt (a greenish-yellow), Pink Foil, Total Crimson (which is the one shown) and Black. The overall design isn’t very different from the original version; the all-round bangle has a single button to turn on the LED display that cycles through your activity stats.
Double-pressing the wristband button brings up the time. This new feature is a critical update for Nike since others in this space, like the Fitbit Force, are starting to blur the lines between activity tracker and smartwatch.
The Fuelband comes in three different sizes – small, medium/large and extra large. Each band comes with two different link spacers to help you find a better fit. The Fuelband SE is thicker and more rigid than some of the other activity trackers out there right now.
Setting up the Fuelband for the first time isn’t difficult but it is lengthy and more frustrating than it should be. You will need to create a Nike+ account online. Once you have an account, you plug your Fuelband into your computer to complete the setup. It’s not exactly plug’n’play, but it’s only a one-time thing, so it’s not a big deal.
Charging the Fuelband SE is pretty much like the original Fuelband. The SE plugs right into your computer’s USB port. If your USB port is crowded, the Fuelband SE also comes with a USB extension cord to help you out.
Although you are able to see a lot of information on the wristband display, you’ll want to pair your Fuelband with the Fuelband iPhone app to go further into your data. The app lets you see your Fuel gauge, track your activity against your goals and compete with friends. Nike currently doesn’t have an Android app.
The Nike Fuelband SE can be purchased online or in-store at Nike or Canadian Apple stores.
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